Will iMac 27 in (year 2013) be able to use as a display for Mac Studio M3 Ultra?

iMac OS Catalina, Version 10.5.4, year 2013 with two Thunderbolt 2 and four USB A ports

Mac Studio M3 Ultra Four USB C ports, Two USB A ports, HDMI port

Will this iMac be a display for Mac Studio M3 Ultra?

iMac 27″, macOS 10.15

Posted on Jun 12, 2025 3:43 PM

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5 replies

Jul 1, 2025 6:21 PM in response to sharonfromredondo beach

No. That iMac supports Target Display Mode, using Thunderbolt input – but Apple added restrictions such that no current Mac supports using ANY iMac as a Target Display.


Reference: Use your iMac as a display with target display mode - Apple Support


That iMac is too old to be an AirPlay Receiver for AirPlay to Mac, a lower-quality way of using a Mac as a display.


Reference: Continuity features and requirements for Apple devices - Apple Support

Jul 1, 2025 4:17 PM in response to sharonfromredondo beach

purchase a Studio display and you will never have compatibility issues and have great sound and video, and has a camera for zoom meetings. It is possible to convert an iMac to a monitor by removing the electronics and buying new electronics to drive the LED display, but it's messy and the rear connections don't fit the shell as a built unit does; its not an expensive solution, but if you are affording a MacStudio, also go first class on the monitor. You will be glad you did.

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Will iMac 27 in (year 2013) be able to use as a display for Mac Studio M3 Ultra?

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